Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the
call of duty as commanding officer of Company C, 1st Battalion, 26th Marines, 5th Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the seizure of Iwo Jima in the
Volcano Islands, on 20 and 21 February, 1945. Defying uninterrupted blasts of Japanese
artillery. mortar, rifle and machinegun fire, Capt. Dunlap led his troops in a determined
advance from low ground uphill toward the steep cliffs from which the enemy poured a
devastating rain of shrapnel and bullets, steadily inching forward until the tremendous
volume of enemy fire from the caves located high to his front temporarily halted his
progress. Determined not to yield, he crawled alone approximately 200 yards forward of his
front lines, took observation at the base of the cliff 50 yards from Japanese lines,
located the enemy gun positions and returned to his own lines where he relayed the vital
information to supporting artillery and naval gunfire units. Persistently disregarding his
own personal safety, he then placed himself in an exposed vantage point to direct more
accurately the supporting fire and, working without respite for 2 days and 2 nights under
constant enemy fire, skillfully directed a smashing bombardment against the almost
impregnable Japanese positions despite numerous obstacles and heavy marine casualties. A
brilliant leader, Capt. Dunlap inspired his men to heroic efforts during this critical
phase of the battle and by his cool decision, indomitable fighting spirit, and daring
tactics in the face of fanatic opposition greatly accelerated the final decisive defeat of
Japanese countermeasures in his sector and materially furthered the continued advance of
his company. His great personal valor and gallant spirit of self-sacrifice throughout the
bitter hostilities reflect the highest credit upon Capt. Dunlap and the U.S. Naval
Service.

Citation Courtesy of www.HomeOfHeroes.com

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